Jewelry blog from Jewelrymall.com

We see silver necklaces, gold earrings, platinum rings, and more in jewelry stores of famous jewelers, but one type of jewelry that most people tend to underestimate is pearl jewelry. This is so because unlike gold or diamond jewelry, pearls are made of organic materials, therefore are very susceptible to dirt and all kinds of damage that could decrease its value.

Cleaning Tips

If you own pearl jewelry, remember that using cleaning solutions, detergents, or anything that has harmful chemicals should be avoided. If for some reason your pearls have gotten really dirty, here are some cleaning tips for pearl jewelry:

• Remember that using any type of detergent or harmful soap can damage the pearls in an instant.

• The preferred method it to use an extremely soft cloth (such as a chamois) and VERY gently wipe the dirt off your pearls. This is usually considered the safest method but you need to be very careful as you don’t want the dirt you are lifting off the pearls to actually scratch the pearls.

• If that is not sufficient, you can gently clean them using a damp cotton bud that has been moistened in water and an extremely tiny amount of very mild face soap. This is to clean out all the dirt that could have accumulated in areas like the string, the knots, and even the drill holes on the pearls. For expensive pearls, use a Pearl Cleaner to avoid damage.

• If your pearl jewelry gets wet, instead of drying the pearl jewelry using a towel, let the pearls dry in room temperature. Remember, the less number of times the pearls are touched, rubbed, and brushed by rough surfaces, the better. Once you see that the cloth underneath the pearl jewelry is dry then they are ready to be stored.

o Always remember that when drying, never hang them or keep them dangling from a hook.

• Be certain your pearls are dry before wearing.

Pearl Care Tips

• Pearl necklaces that are strung on silk need to be stored flat as silk stretches over time.

• Always put on your pearls after applying makeup; remove them before removing makeup. Perfume, makeup, makeup remover and hairspray can damage pearls easily.

• Do NOT store your pearls in plastic bags. Store them flat on something soft and padded.

• Always remember that pearl jewelry should never be worn when taking a bath as this could damage the pearls. Take them off before heading into the showers.

• Remove your pearls before participating in sports – especially swimming.

Using these simple techniques your pearls should be able to be enjoyed by generations.

Technorati Tags: cleaning tips for pearl jewelry, pearls, Pearl Care